Twelfth nation-wide protest against derogatory speech
In the heart of Berlin, the state criminal police office recently executed nine search warrants at various residential addresses in Hohenschönhausen, Lichtenberg, Neukölln, Tempelhof, Lichterfelde, Charlottenburg, and Spandau. These searches were part of the twelfth nationwide action day against hate speech, initiated by the Federal Criminal Police Office.
The searches were prompted by suspicions of using symbols of unconstitutional organizations, inciting and approving crimes, and incitement of the public. The specific nature or content of the posts or activities under investigation were not detailed in the press release.
The investigations involve separate cases against nine individuals, aged 26 to 70. The search warrants were issued due to evidence collected from social media platforms such as X, Facebook, and Threads, as well as a Facebook group.
The searches resulted in the seizure of evidence, including an internet-capable device. As of early August 2025, these investigations are ongoing, with the evaluation of the evidence and further investigations ongoing.
The rise in hate speech, particularly targeting marginalized groups such as the LGBTQ+ communities, has been a concerning trend in Berlin. Criminal investigations linked to such offenses have increased significantly, with as many as 45 cases reported around certain safe spaces like cafes.
Berlin’s LGBTQ+ community has been a particular target, with incidents of hate and violence including threats and physical attacks. Platforms like X and Facebook have shown vulnerabilities in adequately moderating hate speech despite efforts to combat it.
Germany has intensified policing of online hate speech and extremist content, reflecting broader national concerns about rights, extremism, and social media’s role in spreading hate. German authorities have criminally investigated hate speech posts linked to political activism and extremist positions, signifying heightened state action in this space.
Research efforts are underway to better classify and respond to criminally relevant hate speech online, including annotated datasets used by prosecutors to improve law enforcement responses. However, the specific fates or legal outcomes of the nine individuals under investigation for hate speech on these platforms in Berlin remain undisclosed in the current reports.
For those witnessing hate speech incidents, reporting them is crucial. To report such incidents, file a police report at any local police station or online via the police website. Additionally, reporting hate speech to social network providers and requesting them to remove illegal content is also encouraged. Central reporting centers such as REspect, HateAid, or the Central Office for Criminal Content on the Internet (ZMI) can also be contacted.
As the investigations continue, the public is reminded to remain vigilant and report any instances of hate speech to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all Berliners.
The investigations, prompted by suspicions of inciting and approving crimes, incitement of the public, and using symbols of unconstitutional organizations, are related to the general-news topic of hate speech, particularly targeting the LGBTQ+ community in Berlin. These investigations, ongoing as of early August 2025, were initiated following evidence collected from various social media platforms, and individuals can report any instances of hate speech, including the ones under investigation, via the police website or central reporting centers.
